Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 130: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself with the progress of the MANs to date in 2005; if the necessary co-operation is forthcoming from incumbent service providers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37488/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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Phase 1 of this programme has delivered fibre optic networks to 19 towns and cities throughout the country, which were built on time and under budget. The remaining seven in Sligo and the north east are due to be handed over by the end of the year.

This programme has been extended to over 90 towns in various locations nationwide. Design and procurement has already commenced in several regions and construction is due to start early in 2006. It is expected that the majority of these MANs will be completed during 2006 and 2007.

My Department regularly reviews all aspects of the broadband market and holds discussions with broadband interest groups, and service providers. These discussions are ongoing and address all aspects of the telecommunications market including the operation of the MANs.